Poem Analysis - Forebearance

Initial Impression and Tone

Ralph Waldo Emerson's poem Forebearance presents a reflective and introspective tone, inviting the reader into a contemplative space. The speaker addresses an unnamed individual, praising their virtues and expressing a desire for friendship. The mood shifts from admiration to a heartfelt plea, creating a sense of intimacy and longing. The poem's form, a single stanza, supports this intimate and personal tone, allowing the speaker's voice to flow uninterrupted.

Themes of Virtue and Friendship

The poem explores the theme of virtue, highlighting qualities such as respect for nature, humility, and trust. The speaker admires someone who has named birds without harming them, loved a wood-rose but left it untouched, and faced danger unarmed. These actions symbolize a deep respect for life and a commitment to non-violence. The speaker's admiration for these virtues is evident in the phrase "Nobility more nobly to repay," suggesting that true nobility is recognized and honored by those who possess it.

The theme of friendship is central to the poem, as the speaker expresses a desire to learn from and be friends with the virtuous individual. The repetition of the word "friend" in the final line emphasizes the speaker's longing for a deep, meaningful connection. The phrase "teach me to be thine" suggests a willingness to learn and grow, further highlighting the importance of friendship in the speaker's life.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem uses vivid imagery to convey its themes. The wood-rose, for example, symbolizes beauty and delicacy, as well as the speaker's respect for nature. The fact that the individual loved the wood-rose but left it on its stalk suggests a deep appreciation for its natural state, rather than a desire to possess or control it. This imagery supports the theme of virtue, highlighting the individual's respect for nature and commitment to non-violence.

The phrase "Unarmed, faced danger with a heart of trust" uses vivid imagery to convey the individual's courage and trust. The fact that they faced danger unarmed suggests a deep sense of trust, both in themselves and in the world around them. This imagery supports the theme of virtue, highlighting the individual's bravery and commitment to non-violence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Emerson's Forebearance is a reflective and introspective poem that explores the themes of virtue and friendship. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem highlights the speaker's admiration for an individual who embodies these virtues. The poem's intimate tone and personal address create a sense of longing and desire for a deep, meaningful connection. Ultimately, the poem invites the reader to reflect on their own virtues and the importance of friendship in their lives. The speaker's plea for friendship serves as a reminder of the power of connection and the value of learning from those who embody the virtues we admire.